In 1901 the saguaro’s blossom was adopted as the official territorial flower, and later, in 1931, it was confirmed as the state flower. The saguaro cactus typically blooms in May and
June. It is one of the most unique state flowers, and is characterized by having
a waxy feel, but fragrant aroma.
There may be hundreds of flowers
on a saguaro cactus that bloom just several at a time over a period of more than
a month. The saguaro flowers have a short life; they open at night and close
permanently during the next day. Many of the blossoms will become pollinated
and, later in the summer, the flowers
become red-fleshed fruits that are enjoyed by the local bird population.
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